Birkirkara is a vibrant city rich in history, culture and Mediterranean charm. Explore the historic centre filled with traditional Maltese townhouses and admire landmarks like St. Helen's Basilica. Leafy parks and gardens add to the picturesque street scene. Easy access to Valletta makes Birkirkara a great base for sightseeing in the Maltese capital.
Things to do in Birkirkara
Walk around the city centre and discover the architectural heritage of Malta. The narrow streets are lined with traditional townhouses with decorative wooden balconies. St. Helen's Basilica, a grand Baroque church built in the 18th century, soars over the historic centre. Admire the magnificent stone façade and step inside to see ornate frescoes and religious artefacts. St. Theresa Sanctuary stands in stark contrast to St. Helen's and features an ultra-modern design by Italian architect, Giorgio Pacini.
You’ll find everything from farm-fresh produce to artisanal crafts at the bustling Birkirkara Market. The market is packed with food stalls where you can try Maltese specialties like “pastizzi” diamond-shaped pastries stuffed with ricotta and “timpana” pie filled with layers of penne pasta and meat sauce.
Escape the urban scene and enjoy a relaxing stroll in San Anton Gardens. Set behind ivy-covered red-brick walls, the historic botanical gardens were laid out in the 17th century. Wander along tree-lined paths, enjoy a picnic on the manicured lawns and admire the Presidential Palace in the heart of the gardens.
Spend the day sightseeing in Valletta, the captivating Maltese capital. Perched on a peninsula, the city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with historical treasures. Behind the honey-coloured façade of St John's Co-Cathedral is an elaborate interior decorated with paintings by Italian master, Caravaggio.
Getting around Birkirkara
Birkirkara is pedestrian-friendly and easy to get around on foot. The city is in the central region of Malta, a 20-minute drive from Valletta. Birkirkara is well-connected by public transport, with bus connections to Valletta in 20 minutes and Mdina in 15 minutes. Malta International Airport is a 20-minute drive away.